The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Task Force on Circumcision published its policy statement and technical report on
newborn circumcision in September 2012.1,2 Since that time, some individuals and groups have voiced objections to the work of the Task Force, while others have conveyed
their support. The AAP task force is pleased that the policy statement and technical reports on circumcision have stimulated
debate on this topic and welcomes respectful discussion and dialogue about the scientific and ethical issues that surround
neonatal circumcision. We believe this is a complex issue that does not lend itself to simplistic solutions. The Task Force
encourages those of all viewpoints to contribute to a vibrant, thoughtful and respectful evidence-based dialogue. We appreciate
that the free exchange of competing ideas is a necessary component of scientific discovery. We also recognise that all clinical
decisions carry ethical dimensions and that a respectful and thoughtful dialogue about these issues is important. However,
the Task Force also feels strongly that this debate and the academic literature are demeaned when those with an ideological
agenda disseminate inaccurate information, misapply scientific principles, make accusations that are unsupported, communicate
in a vitriolic tone, and attempt to discredit and mischaracterise alternative views and those who hold them. Healthy debate
and …